Last week, the animated movie “The Smurfs” hit the theatres (and soon, Smurf Halloween costumes will be hitting the store shelves.) Kids everywhere went absolutely crazy for the shenanigans of the crazy blue Smurfs as they fell out of their mythical world right into the middle of New York City and had a hilarious as well as Smurfy adventure.   Your excitement over “The Smurfs” may not have been quite as high as your kid’s was, however.  Perhaps you’ve spent your summer seeing movies that you were less than thrilled with in an effort to keep your kids entertained.   If you are looking for an animated film or two that your kids are going to love, that isn’t going to be torture for you at the same time, we’ve compiled a list just for you.  Here’s our list of Top 10 animated movies–that grown ups will absolutely love, too.

Toy Story 3

Toy Story 3 brings back the beloved cast members of Toy Story, produced by Pixar and released by Walt Disney Pictures.  In the latest sequel, Andy has grown up and doesn’t have much time to play with the toys as he used to.  The toys are feeling sad about this, of course and even more so when Andy is packing up and going off to college.  Through a series of mishaps, the toys end up getting packed and sent off to the Sunnyside Daycare Center.  At first, the toys are excited about being played with again, but soon it becomes apparent that they are being held prisoner by the head toy, Lotsa Bear and are also being mistreated.  Woody hatches a plan to help the toys escape and the toys set out on an adventure of their own as they try to make it back home.

The Nightmare Before Christmas

Jack Skellington is the Pumpkin King of Halloweentown.  His job, along with all the residents of Halloweentown, has been to scare humans on Halloween.  Jack is very good at his job, but it’s gotten a bit passé and is starting to feel boring to him.  One day while wandering about in the forest, he accidentally falls into a holiday doorway that lands him smack in the middle of Christmas.  Jack is appalled and horrified by the happiness and joy that he sees all around him.  Feeling as if he must put an immediate stop to this joyfulness, Jack goes back to Halloweentown to convince some of his co-horts to kidnap Santa and then do Christmas in true Halloweentown style. 

Shrek

Shrek was a peace-loving ogre, living a contented existence in the swamp.  One day his quiet life was suddenly disrupted by the arrival of a barrage of various fairy tale characters.  Pinocchio, The Donkey, The Three Little Pigs and many others have suddenly invaded his swamp!  Lord Farquaad dislikes all fairy tale creatures, and has banished all of them into the depths of the swampland.  Shrek, desperate to regain his previous existence, seeks help from Lord Farquaad himself.   Shrek finds himself sent to rescue Princess Fiona and has a life changing adventure of his very own. 

The Incredibles

Two former super heroes are now married living a contented suburban life, hidden away from all the excitement of their former superhero lives by the witness protection program.  Bob Parr (once known as Mr. Incredible) and his wife, Helen, (once known as Elasti-girl) have settled into a peaceful life of retirement from all acts of supreme heroism.  Their 3 kids, Violet, Dash and Jack Jack all have secret inherited superpowers of their own. One day, Bob is offered a clandestine assignment, which would allow him to use his super power status again.  The mission becomes irresistible to him even when his wife is reluctant to get back into the superhero business.  Sadly, the secret assignment turns out to be nothing but a trap concocted by an old enemy.    The only way out (and to save the world, of course) is for this family of superheroes to unite their unique powers as a family, and pull together to save the world from catastrophic destruction.   

Up

Carl Fredrickson, a kind of shy guy, falls in love with a feisty, adventurous girl named Ellie.  They are madly in love and share their passion of adventure.  Carl and Ellie eventually marry, and although they never have children, they both share a dream together of going to the Lost Land in South America.  Sadly, before the couple can realize this dream, Ellie dies of old age.  Carl is so sad, and becomes very despondent as well as grumpy as he tries to forge ahead in life, alone.  One day, as they are trying to force Carl to move to a retirement facility, Carl remembers the promise he made to Ellie and using balloons, elevates his house out of the neighborhood in search of the Lost Land.  Carl discovers that Russell, a scout that has been hanging around trying to earn his “assisting the elderly” merit badge is stowed away as the house departs on it’s journey.  A heartwarming and unforgettable adventure ensues as Carl tries to fulfill his promise to Ellie and keep Russell alive and well in the process.

The Little Mermaid

Ariel, the youngest daughter of King Triton, is a red-haired mermaid living under the sea.  Ariel is bored with being a mermaid, however, and longs for a life as a human being, living on the land with legs.  This becomes quite a sore subject for Ariel and her father, and they find themselves arguing over this quite a bit.  Eventually, Ariel becomes desperate enough in her desire to become human that she visits Ursula, the evil Sea Witch who has been banished by King Triton.  Ariel strikes a deal with Ursula but what she doesn’t realize is that Ursula has an evil plan of her own to harm Ariel in order to seek revenge upon King Triton for her banishment. 

Beauty and The Beast

Belle is a pretty girl who loves books and reading.  She has become very bored with her stale existence in a small French provincial town and the constant attention given to her by the town buffoon, Gaston.  One day, Belle’s father, Maurice takes a wrong turn in the woods and finds himself being held captive by the Beast in his castle.  Unbeknown to Maurice, the Beast is actually Prince Adam who long ago had been turned into a beast as a severe punishment by an Enchantress.  This curse was put on him because he was unable to love another.  In order for the spell on the Beast to be broken, the Beast would have to fall in love with someone and have that love returned to him before his 21st birthday.  The Beast was so angry and bitter—who could ever fall in love with him as he was?  And now, Maurice was being held prisoner by this beastly monster.  Eventually, Belle goes looking for her father and when she finds him, is extremely worried about how her dad will survive such circumstances as the Beast’s unwilling captive.  She strikes a deal with the Beast to trade places with her father, and become the Beasts captor herself.  At first their mutual bitterness is apparent and Belle’s distaste for the Beast’s malevolent behavior is obvious.  Over time, however, Belle begins to see a softer side of the Beast that perhaps went unnoticed at first and eventually something truly magical begins to happen between them.

The Lion King

When a young Lion prince (Simba) is born, the evil uncle Scar becomes the second in line to the throne.  Seeking to get rid of King Mufasa and the young Simba, Scar comes up with an evil plot to kill King Mufasa, leaving poor Simba to blame himself for his father’s death.  Simba leaves his village and is filled with agonizing shame.  Eventually Simba learns the truth and is convinced to return to his village, to overcome the villainous Scar and reclaim his reign as The Lion King. 

A Bug’s Life

Every year the Ants are forced to make an offering to the Grasshoppers.  The Grasshoppers come to the Anthill to eat the offering and the Ants make sure it’s ready for them, as they know this is the plight of their existence to do so.  One year as the Grasshopper’s make their way to the Anthill to partake of the goods, it is discovered that by mistake, Flik has dropped the seeds that were for the Grasshoppers feasting, right into the river!  The Grasshoppers order the Ants to gather a new offering and Flik, feeling responsible takes charge of the situation.  Instead of collecting a new offering, however, Flik decides to try and find some bugs that will help him to fight off the oppressive Grasshoppers.  Just when he thinks he has found the ultimate bug warriors, Flik then discovers that his fearless bug warriors are actually Circus Bugs!

Monsters, Inc.

Sully, a big blue furry monster and his sidekick Mike are best friends and workers for a utility company in Monstropolis.  The utility company manufactures power that is generated by of all things, the sound of children’s screams.  In order to make the children scream, the monsters are hired to scare the children in their sleep at which time the screams are processed and turned into power. 

One night by accident, Sully mistakenly allows a two-year old kid into Monstropolis.  Instant mayhem ensues because the monsters have become programmed to believe that children are toxic to them and have deadly diseases.  The monsters name the child “Boo” and eventually discover that in reality, she is quite harmless.  Sully decides that Boo must be returned to her home. 

Through a series of battles and a twist of events, the monsters eventually must fight to protect the kids that they used to want to try and scare.

There’s still plenty of time left this summer to see some really good movies.  Spend some quality time with your kids seeing films that everyone is going to cherish as well as enjoy.

As kids, most of us can remember borrowing one of our mother’s towels, draping it over our shoulders and attaching it in the front with a clothespin.  The transformation was instantaneous.  With that addition of a makeshift cape we could instantly become a superhero—at least in our own childlike mind.  Why did we want to be one of these caped heroes?  Did donning that cape somehow empower us?

This past week the feature film Captain America came out in movie theatres across the nation.  Moviegoers everywhere can’t wait to see the latest adventures of this well-known, patriotic superhero. The popularity of movies that feature superheroes doesn’t seem to ever wane–in fact, these movies seem as popular as ever.  What is it about these characters that we love?  What do these heroes mean to us, even as adults today?  Before you head to the theatre to see Captain America or any of the other great films out there featuring these shining superstars, there’s a few things for you to consider.

Superheroes help us to escape reality:  Life can be and is difficult at times.   The recession has brought with it hard times and struggles for many.  Getting away from the realities and the harshness of life for a few hours to watch something uplifting can be very therapeutic.  In superhero movies, good almost always prevails over evil and that is a pleasant and rewarding thought process for most.  Superheroes live in a wonderful fantasy world that can be a great escape from the realities of the present moment.

Superheroes can offer hope to your own life:  No matter how strong and powerful the superhero is, his situation is often fraught with various dangers and perilous situations.  It’s never really easy to be a superhero and even though the hero usually comes out on top, they often come dangerously close to losing it all.  Fighting through difficult challenges and never giving up are uplifting messages for everyone.  Learning that perseverance through difficult challenges often pays off offers hope to keep trying when things get really tough.

Live Vicariously:  Superheroes do things that no human being could ever really do, at least not yet (unless of course you’re wearing a superhero costume!)  It’s fun to imagine the possibilities, however, and to imagine what it might be like to scale up walls like Spiderman, or fly through the air like Superman.  The inspiration for the world’s greatest inventions started as a simple dream—where will you go with yours?

Believe you can make a difference:  Every single person can be a hero to someone, whether it is in a very small way, or by doing something that has a much a greater magnitude.  Simple gestures such as an encouraging word to a co-worker or reading a book to a child can create a lasting impact.  Never underestimate the sphere of your influence, as it’s probably much greater than you might think.  No one expects you to duck into a phone booth, make a quick clothing change and then fly up to the top floor to pull desperate people out of a burning building.  Your heroic acts are likely much smaller and although they may feel insignificant, may have lasting meaning to those on the receiving end.

A strong moral figure:  People like believing in something that is bigger, stronger, and better than they are to inspire them.  Seeing someone who is fighting for right and trying to fight against evil is inspiring.  This type of example gives each of us something to look up to as well as try to emulate.

Inspiration:  Superheroes offer each of us the opportunity to recognize heroic traits that are still lying dormant within us.  Some of the qualities we see in superheroes through their acts of strength and bravery can make us realize that some of these characteristics actually already lie within our own selves.  With a little inspiration, perhaps each of us will believe we can be much better people than we currently are. 

Making dreams into reality:  There’s a passionate dreamer in each of us.  Having the chance to think outside of the box and imagine the possibilities that exist in every facet of life is a good thing.  Superheroes offer us the chance to dream about something a little bit bigger than we really are.  Where that dreaming takes you of course, is entirely up to you.

The final word:  There is a quote from May Parker in the movie Spiderman that sums up what superheroes mean to us quite well. It goes like this:   “Everybody loves a hero.  People line up for them, cheer their names, and years later they’ll tell how they stood in the rain for hours just to get a glimpse of the one who taught them to hold on just a second longer.  I believe there’s a hero in all of us.  It keeps us honest, gives us strength, makes us noble, and finally allows us to die with pride.”

Everyone needs a hero.  Go out and be somebody’s hero today.

The latest edition of Transformers was released this past week and soon the film Zookeeper as well as the latest (and last) of the Harry Potter films will be coming to a theatre near you.  These are all movies you are going to want to see come alive on the big screen.  If you still aren’t convinced that going out to the movies should be on your summertime agenda, here is our list of 10 reasons why it should be! 

Unparalleled picture size and Surround Sound:  The most obvious reason to see a movie in the theatre is to see the film up on the big screen.  There really is no other way to feel as wrapped up in the film as you will by seeing the movie up on the largest screen available.  The sound system is always going to be incredible and will enhance the movie to perfection.   All films are most enjoyably seen in the theatre but in particular, some films are almost considered  “must sees” in this fashion.  Your favorite action films that are filled with mesmerizing special effects would be the obvious front-runners for large screen theatre viewing.

Audience reactions:  Although there is always the risk that you will have someone kicking your seat or talking loudly at inappropriate times, generally speaking, having a large audience makes movie –watching much more exciting.  The laughs are more raucous, the sighs become quite audible and the screams are louder than ever–making your whole movie experience much more thrilling.  Having a packed movie theatre to share in your movie viewing experience is bound to create a contagious excitement and will add to the fun.

Snacks:  As soon as you walk into a movie theatre you can smell the buttered popcorn.  There is something about movie popcorn that is unlike popcorn made anywhere else.  Movie theatres have a full staff at your disposal to prepare and serve you not only crunchy popcorn, but gooey, cheesy nachos as well as hot dogs with all trimmings.  Don’t forget a really big drink to wash it all down and of course, something chocolate.

Getting out of the house:  There is something about getting out of the house that can give you a nice psychological boost.  Watching a movie in a theatre feels more like an event than watching one at home while plopped on the couch.  Taking some time away from your phone, computer, work and front doorbell is a good mental break.  Of course once you walk into the movie theatre don’t forget to turn your cell phone off to complete your communication silence!

Still a bargain:  Even though the cost of going to the movies has continued to rise, it is still a bargain compared to other social outings.   Live theatre tickets, concerts, etc. are still much more expensive than attending a movie which still is considered by most to be affordable.  Matinee show times are often discounted, so if your budget is restricted, attend your favorite movie during the daytime.

Previews:  Most people forget about these until they are sitting in the theatre waiting for the show to begin.  Watching clips of upcoming films is an unexpected treat that can get you really excited about what is new and exciting in the world of film.  Previews can also give you some ideas about what movies you’d like to see on your next outing.  Obviously previews are designed to get movie-goer’s intrigued and enthused about what’s going to be coming out in the near future so you definitely won’t want to miss out on these if you are a real movie buff.  On the flip side, sometimes a preview will give you enough information about a movie so that you can actually decide to pass if a particular show isn’t for you. 

Easing first date jitters:  Although we are generally not an advocates of going to the movies on a first date, sometimes if you are very young or extremely nervous, going to a movie for a date is the perfect solution to getting through the experience in one piece.  Sitting in silence in a movie theatre isn’t awkward like it may be in other circumstances and you won’t have to force any small talk.   Watching a film with a date (whether it’s good or bad) will give you something to talk about afterward and hopefully by that point you will be more relaxed and into a date night groove. 

Selection:  All you have to do is look at the marquis at your local cinema to see that there are many choices and types of movies to go and see.  If your family is not necessarily in total agreement you may even be able to coordinate your viewing so that you can split up and see different movies at the same time.  At your local theatre right now there is something for everyone as well as many choices that the entire family will enjoy together. 

Water cooler conversation:  If you want to see the latest and the greatest movies out there, you are going to have to see them in the theatre.  By the time most films come out on DVD they are fairly old and nearly considered yesterday’s news.  People are always going to be super excited and will clamor to see the big movie blockbusters every season.  Going to the theatre to see the latest films ensures that you are going to know what all the fuss is about in the media as well as having something fun to discuss at the water cooler.  Hitting the theatre ensures that you will be one of the first to see what everyone is talking about when it comes to a new movie. 

Cure for the summertime blues:  Hopefully by now you are convinced that going out to the movies is a great idea and could be the perfect break up of any summertime monotony you are experiencing.   If your kids are hot, tired, bored and restless a movie break might be just the perfect thing to improve everyone’s mood as well as their frame of mind. 

With so many exciting summer movies in the theatres, now’s the time to get out of the heat and head to the nearest air-conditioned theatre for a few hours of really great entertainment.   See you at the movies! 

PS: Be sure to cast your vote in our Summer Movie Blockbuster contest! You could win a $250 online shopping spree just in time for Halloween.

One of the challenges of going to the movies can be finding a film that all members of the family are equally excited about seeing.   Sometimes the movies that your kids are interested in aren’t necessarily the ones you would choose to see first.  Fortunately, this summer’s hot movie list has many choices that are bound to be hits with your entire family.  Here’s our list of upcoming summer movies that your kids are going to want to see that we think you are going to enjoy as well. 

Pirates of the Caribbean:  On Stranger Tides

Johnny Depp reprises the role of Jack Sparrow on another crazy action packed adventure bound to be entertaining for your entire family.  In this latest sequel, Jack sets out to find the Fountain of Youth and in the process reconnects with a woman from his past.  Has Jack found true love?  Or is he being duped by this woman (Penelope Cruz) as she beguiles him into her web of lies and forces him onto the vicious pirate Blackbeard’s ship, The Queen Anne’s Revenge.   On his quest to find the Fountain of Youth, now Jack our slightly cockamamy buccaneer finds himself in the middle of a zany adventure where he is unsure who to fear most, this woman from his past or Blackbeard himself. 

Kung Fu Panda

The saga of Po the Panda (voice of Jack Black) continues as he and his cohorts, known as the Furious Five encounter a new and evil villain.  The maniacal scoundrel, Lord Shen (voice of Gary Oldman) has a secret and unstoppable weapon and is set on the destruction of China and the martial arts.  Po and his furious friends are on a mission to seek out the enemy and overpower it. 

Mr. Popper’s Penguins

Mr. Popper (Jim Carrey) hasn’t always been the nicest guy.   Little did he know however that in his quest to have an arctic adventure he would become suddenly housemates with 6 adorable and very energetic live penguins.  Jim Carrey adds his own quirky and hilarious dimension to this 1938 children’s book character.  This movie is bound to delight you and your children as Mr. Popper adjusts to the shenanigans and hilarity that living with a bunch of penguins has created.   You will roll with laughter while the iciness of Mr. Poppers persona is melted down by his new arctic friends.

The Green Lantern

Based on the DC Comics strip of the same name, the Green Lantern Corps are a brotherhood of warriors that are sworn to protect intergalactic order and perpetuate peace and justice in the universe.  This powerful force has existed for many centuries but a vicious enemy called the Parallax threatens the balance of power in the Universe.  The fate of the Earth lies in the power of the Green Lantern and in the hands of their newest member, Hal Jordan (Ryan Reynolds).  Hal is talented and smart but very arrogant.  The Green Lantern members are dubious about humans and a human has never fully adapted to the powers of the ring that gives each of them super powers.  Watch and see if Hal can overcome his struggles and overcome the powers of the evil Parallax.

Cars 2

Lightning McQueen (voice of Owen Wilson) and his tow truck Mater (voice of Larry the Cable Guy) are back in action racing in the first ever World Grand Prix.   Of course there are a few bumps in the road including Mater getting involved in some international espionage!  Mater the tow truck is caught between helping Lightning race against the world’s fastest cars and getting involved in a clandestine spy mission of his own.

X-Men: First Class

The Marvel Comics heroes are recreated from the beginning of their saga back from the very beginning.  Before the identities of Professor X and Magneto even existed there were two young men just discovering their powers for the first time.  Before they declared themselves enemies they were actually very good friends and cohorts.  Together with other mutants they were going to stop the greatest threat the world has ever known.  Over time, a disagreement ensued which began the legendary war between Magneto’s brotherhood and Professor X’s X men.

Harry Potter and The Deathly Hallows: Part II

This is all she wrote, folks.  This Harry Potter film is the final installment of one of the greatest movie franchises of all time.  Harry will finally try to bring an end to his archenemy Lord Voldemort as he and his friends search for Horcruxes that hold pieces of Voldemort’s soul.  This movie will tie up all the loose ends and bring the infamous series to a close.  Don’t miss it. 

Captain America: The First Avenger

Born a sickly and frail child during the deep depression, Steve Rogers wanted nothing more than to serve his country in the armed services.  Even after being rejected because of his weakness, he still desired to serve his country.  Steve’s pleas to join the army are overheard by General Chester Phillips who then enlists him in a special experiment called: Operation Rebirth.  After being administered the Super Soldier Serum and being bombarded by “vita-rays” Steve Rogers emerges as a super power laden body as perfect as perfect can be and still be considered human.  After a rigorous training program he is given his first assignment as—Captain America.  Captain America continues his battle to protect the world against evil forces and retain liberty and freedom.

Spy Kids: All The Time in the World

Retired Spy Marissa (Jessica Alba) is about to be called back into action.  She’s a housewife, a mother and a television reporter.  Marissa’s bickering step -children Rebecca and Cecil (who clearly don’t want much to do with their step mom) are surprised to discover that their step mom is a former spy.  All familial differences must be set aside in order to deal with the fast approaching Armageddon, which possibly could be the impetus to bringing their dysfunctional family together as well.

Winnie The Pooh

Disney’s most beloved bear is back with his entire gang of characters for this latest Disney animated film that will surely become a classic.  Tigger, Eeyore, Roo, Kanga, Piglet and Christopher Robin are all back to have a wild and hare-brained adventure that is set in the 100-acre woods. 

It’s that time of year again—the season every die-hard movie lover looks forward to.  It’s summer blockbuster time!   Now that the warmer weather is here there will be throngs of people choosing to escape the heat by heading into the air-conditioned movie theater for some great summertime entertainment. 

This summer could very easily be called “The Year of the Sequel” as many if not most of the biggest summer blockbusters scheduled to be released are sequels, prequels or movie franchises.  If you can’t get too much of a good thing—this is definitely a great summer for movies.  We’ve compiled our list of the best of the sequels not to be missed this year.

Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides (May 20, 2011)

Johnny Depp is back for the 4th installment of this ever-popular Disney franchise as well as Geoffrey Rush.  Penelope Cruz joins the cast in an adventure that has Jack Sparrow seeking out the Fountain of Youth.  Blackbeard (played by Ian McShane) is a new addition to the cast  that shares the same quest.  It looks like Disney has definitely done it again!

The Hangover: Part II  (May 26, 2011)

This movie has some big shoes to fill as the original Hangover was a surprise mega hit back in 2008.  The entire crazy gang is back to create more mayhem in this sequel that is bound to be a huge hit or a bad case of a “been there, done that.”

Kung Fu Panda: The Kaboom of Doom (May 27, 2011)

The big, chubby Panda Kung-Fu martial artist returns for more crazy fun.  This animated adventure stars the voices of Jack Black, Angelina Jolie, Dustin Hoffman, Gary Oldman and Jean-Claude Van Damme. 

X-Men: First Class (June 3, 2011)

Professor X forms a school for mutants and becomes a mortal enemy of Magneto in this prequel to the series.  James McAvoy plays the future professor.

Cars 2: World Grand Prix (June 24, 2011)

Owen Wilson stars as the voice of Lightning McQueen who with Mater the incredible tow truck, (voice of Larry the Cable Guy) take on the World Grand Prix.  The journey isn’t going to be easy—lots of pit stops, detours and hilarious shenanigans along the way will make this Pixar film a sure fire summer kid favorite.

Transformers: Dark of The Moon (July 1, 2011)

Shia La Beouf, Tyrese Gibson, John Malkovich, Frances McDormand and Ken Jeong star in this latest installment of this action packed and very noisy movie franchise.  Shia La Beouf and his giant robots discover all sorts of crazy stuff going on over there on the dark side of the moon.

Harry Potter and The Deathly Hallows Part II (July 15, 2011)

This is the final installment of this film franchise-one of the most popular and lucrative of all time.  Even though we will be sad to see an end to Harry Potter and his Hogwort associates, this finale is bound to be a huge hit as well as a sentimental favorite this summer.  Harry and the gang try to find Voldemort’s horcruxes and Voldemort himself and destroy them once and for all in what is bound to be all out war.  

Rise Of The Planet Of The Apes (August 5, 2011)

This ancient franchise has been exhumed again for a new generation to behold.  The setting is modern-day San Francisco and there is an epic battle between the now intelligent apes created by modern scientists and man. The film stars James Franco, Freida Pinto, John Lithgow and starring as the big ape, Andy Serkis. 

Spy Kids 4:  All The Time In The World (August 19, 2011)

The fourth installment of the hit movie franchise, Spy Kids 4 is set to be released in some theatres in 3D.   Jessica Alba stars as a retired secret agent who is now a wife and mother.  She is called back into action when a crazy Timekeeper threatens to take over the planet.

Final Destination 5 (August 26, 2011)

You can’t beat death…or can you?  We thought the final destination had been reached after the first film but apparently there is enough ways to beat up, mangle and hack up doomed teenagers to inspire this 5th film in the series. 

Today, April 15th marks the release of the 4th movie in Wes Craven’s Scream series.  If the first trilogy made the hair on the back of your neck stand up, Scream 4 is bound to do the same.   With most of the old characters back as well as some new, younger faces, this movie will take you right into the heart of darkness and redefine what fear is. This latest chapter in the Scream series is out just in time for a good Spring Break scare.   After you’ve seen Scream 4, check out our list of the Top Ten Scariest Movies of all time.

TOP 10 SCARIEST MOVIES OF ALL TIME

Texas Chain Saw Massacre (1974)- This classic horror flick gets started with the ominous line “based on true story” which pretty much makes a chill go down your spine every time.  Whether it’s Leatherman’s human skin mask or that hideous chain saw sound—this is the perfect slasher movie for those that aren’t afraid to be scared or grossed out to death.

The Ring (2002)- Naomi Watts takes on some really freaky chick that would actually really like to climb out of a well, kill people and eat their guts.  Freaky Stuff.

Invasion Of The Body Snatchers (1978) -This sci-fi thriller will leave you very disappointed if you like happy endings.  If your family starts acting strangely it may make you wonder a bit, too. 

Dawn Of The Dead (1978)- This sequel to the “Night of the Living Dead” brought new life to the zombie genre and with good reason.  This horror flick has some of the goriest scenes ever recorded on film—definitely horrific enough to get it banned in 7 countries. 

Halloween (1978) -Jamie Lee Curtis stars in what might be the best movie she ever made–at least while screaming through the entire thing.    You will never forget Michael Myers as he truly epitomizes the ultimate zombie-like never can die bogeyman.

The Shining (1980)-Heeeeere’s Johnny!  If you want to see Jack Nicholson traipse around a haunted hotel wielding an axe while acting like a complete lunatic this might be the perfect movie to scare the bejesus out of you.  

The Exorcist (1973)-By today’s standards this movie might be considered to be tame.  With spinning heads, buckets of vomit and not so subtle religious undertones—well, this film is still pretty scary stuff. 

The Silence of The Lambs (1991)- You may not ever feel the same about your glass of Chianti after watching this psychological thriller but it’s a good one with quite a few jump right out of your skin scenes. 

Nightmare on Elm Street (1984)-Freddy Kruegger, who is one of the scariest claw clad horror freaks of all time goes after the children of the lynch mob that killed him.  Johnny Depp stars as one of his potential victims.  

The Amityville Horror (1978) -This horror movie is also based on a true story and the book by the same name.  An ordinary family moves into a not so ordinary house where some very frightening things begin to happen.  If you like movies where things go bump in the night—this ones for you.

Candy, Chicks & Rock ‘n’ Roll can be found on billboards from coast to coast promoting the new animated movie coming out Friday called Hop.  It’s from the producers of Despicable Me and I for one can’t wait to see it!  We loved Despicable Me and I know this movie will be just as cute!

You just have to love the way they’re promoting this film – candy, chicks & rock ‘n’ roll is a great attention getter!  The movie is about E.B., the Easter Bunny’s rebel teenage son, who instead of wanting to take on the role of Easter Bunny decides to run off to Hollywood with dreams of becoming a drummer in a rock ‘n’ roll band.   The movie has some great characters besides E.B. – there’s Carlos, the “chick in charge” who’s trying to take over as the Easter Bunny and the Pink Berets who are sent by E.B.’s dad to bring him back to Easter Island.  

Illumination Entertainment knew what they were doing releasing the movie April 1st right in time for the Easter holiday madness, getting everyone in the “here comes Peter Cottontail” spirit!  I know my family will be right there in line after school on Friday to see Hop!    

Touchstone Pictures have done it again with their new animated movie Gnomeo & Juliet 3D.  Today is the big release day and it looks like an adorable movie that kids will enjoy!  It’s about a forbidden love between garden gnomes Gnomeo and Juliet…sound familiar?  I think even William Shakespeare would have loved this film!

Along with the little blue Gnomeo and red Juliet gnomes, there’s a giant lawn mower (a weapon of grass destruction) that goes by the name of  the Terrafirminator, a plastic flamingo with a cute Spanish accent, a little deer named Fawn and a frog named Roseanne that add to the “aw that’s so sweet” factor of the movie.  With all these adorable characters the movie is going to be a hit at Halloween with the toddler Garden Gnome costumes! 

Garden gnomes have actually been around for over 150 years gracing lawns all across the world.  So it was only a matter of time before a movie was made based on one of these cute creatures!

Ring in the new year dressed as your favorite Hollywood star, a character from your favortie movie or perhaps even a superhero. The possibilities are endless! Make a political statement and dress up as a president (past or present). There’s plenty of crazy politicians out there that you could dress up as. Take the humorous route and portray a famous sports figure that made headlines this year…Tiger Woods instantly comes to mind!

Be the life of the party and try out a sexy costume from Halloween Express! Make the guys notice and the girls jealous by making this a New Year’s Eve party to remember! And don’t forget the accessories…never underestimate the power of a mask and cape!

Well, if you haven’t even ordered them yet, don’t worry it’s not too late.  HalloweenExpress.com has some amazing offers in shipping to get your costumes to you in plenty of time!  You can get guaranteed Thursday delivery for only $9.99!  That’s unheard of where shipping is concerned!  When you wait till the last minute it usually ends up costing you a fortune in shipping.


Besides the great shipping prices, there are still so many amazing costumes left to pick from.  Everything from toddlers and infants to tweens, teens and adults.  Thinking you want something easy and quick for a costume?  Check out all the great Halloween masks and wigs they have to offer.  Once you have those the rest is easy!

If your child still hasn’t decided on what he/she wants to be, check out the Harry Potter costumes.  With the movie “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows” coming out in November, Harry Potter is back in the spotlight.  This is the 7th and final installment in the most successful film franchise of all time!  It’s actually a 2-parter with the 2nd part coming out in July 2011, so we’re going to be seeing a lot of Harry, Ron and Hermione for awhile!